WQA Aquatech USA Attendance Rises by More Than 25% in 2012

Show offered attendees information on new strategic plan, current industry issues

Show offered attendees information on new strategic plan, current industry issues

With a 26% attendance increase over 2011, WQA Aquatech USA 2012, held March 6 to 9 in Las Vegas, offered the industry a look into final barrier technology, the issue of salinity, a new Water Quality Assn. (WQA) strategic plan and more.

“The vibrancy of our industry continues to grow,” said Pete Censky, executive director of WQA. “At this crucial time, it was important that so many people came together to help shape the future of water treatment and to learn about new technology and approaches.”

The number of exhibitors increased 5% from 2011, with an 8% increase in the number of exhibiting companies represented. The overall increase in attendance reflects non-booth personnel.

In surveys, those participating offered the highest marks in satisfaction, the number of decision-makers attending, business contacts made, new format and educational programming.

The show opened with an overview of a new WQA strategic plan, presented by members Sam Karge and Dar Watts, CWS-V. The five-year plan presents the major objectives and challenges facing the industry. It focuses on the fact that water scarcity, demands for sustainability and more regulation mean technological advances and confronting government action will be vital.

The show also offered an overview of the final barrier, emphasizing the fact that 99% of water coming into homes is not ingested. Attendees also heard about regulatory concerns, particularly for the western U.S.

For those unable to attend, recordings can be ordered at softconference.com[5]. The full set of recordings includes more than 30 sessions covering a wide range of technical topics and an over- view of major issues facing the industry.

Attendees also paid tribute to Censky, who is retiring after 25 years as executive director of WQA. To honor Censky’s efforts, the Water Quality Research Foundation and WQA created the Censky Challenge, an effort to raise funds for future studies.